ASCI is now on WhatsApp

WhatsApp will serve as the first touch point for consumers to reach ASCI with their main objections and images of the objectionable adsWritankar Mukherjee | ET Bureau | March 10, 2016, 17:52 IST

File photoAdvertising Standard Council of India (ASCI) is going to connect with consumers and curb misleading advertisements by accepting objectionable advertisement complaints from consumers on WhatsApp.

ASCI has issued the number +91 77100 12345 where consumers can WhatsApp complain. It is yet another revolutionary initiative by ASCI, after a successful launch of a mobile app ASCIonline last year, a release said.

Benoy Roychowdhury, ASCI Chairman said the initiative will empower consumers.

"Today almost every person with a smartphone is using messaging services such as WhatsApp. Technology makes it possible for them to flag false, misleading or offensive ads instantaneously and anytime anywhere while on the go - be it while reading newspapers at home, on their way to office, listening to radio or watching TV in the evening," he said.

WhatsApp will serve as the first touch point for consumers to reach ASCI with their main objections and images of the objectionable advertisement. Consumers can send pictures of print ads, hoardings, packaging or screen shots of websites and links of YouTube videos. ASCI team would scrutinize these complaints and take it further if found valid. ASCI would create awareness campaigns by print and radio spots to promote the service.